Charge for projectiles.



E. 11111131111111 & G. s. MERRILL.

CHARGE FOR PROJECTILES.

Patented Dec. 5, 1911.

8 me wtoz v the shell) inserted in the bore, 0, and it required, opened at the rear to permit the insertion thereinto of the discharging device, and the breech of the shellis then insertedl In exploding the shell the detonating charge, D, is exploded in the same manner as detonating charges have heretofore been exploded, and any usual or convenient form of exploding device can be employed.

In case after a shell has been charged it is desired to draw the charge, this can be safely done by first withdrawing from the bore, C, the case, 03, containing the detonating charge, after which the exploding charge, B, can be withdrawn by means of a hook or other engaging device inserted in the bore, C.- i

By means of our invention explosive charges for shells may be safely stored in quantity and kept in readiness for use, and

shells'can be safely and quickly charged therewith, if desired, immedlatelybefore being used, and can be safelyunchargedit reuired. Shells may also be loaded with t eir exploding charges, but without the detonating charges, and storedin quantity and kept for any length of time in safety and Without deterioration, the detonating charges being added immediately before firing. The advantages of these -teatures will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art.

What we claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. An explosive charge consisting of a main charge of explosive material in the form of a cast homogeneous solid, having a cavity formed therein to receive a detonating charge, a detonating charge casing fitting said cavity' removable, and completely inclosing its contents and a detonating charge contained within said casing.

2. An explosive charge consisting of a main charge of explosive material in the form of a homogeneous solid provided with a cavity to receive a detonatmg charge, a detonatingcharge casing fitting said cavity and removably held therein, said casing1being constructed to completely inclose its contents, and a detonating charge in said'casing. In testimony whereof, we have'hereunto subscribedour names this tthday of March A. D. 1910.;

EDMOND Y J ANDRIER. GEORGE SPENCER MERRILL' Witnessesz' JOHN Ronmsori CARPENTER, Dnx'rnn WILBUR Hoxns. 

